Another tip in a series provided by the Offices of Information Security, Information Systems & Computing and Audit, Compliance & Privacy.

The holiday shopping season has always been a profitable time for scammers. This year, with supply chain issues limiting the availability of popular items, it will be even more challenging for shoppers to dodge scams. Here are some tips for staying safe while shopping online:

If something appears too good to be true, it likely is. Sought-after items selling for less than list price are a red flag that something is not right.

Use a credit card rather than a debit card when making online purchases. Credit cards are not directly connected to your bank account—if there are problems with a shady seller, your bank funds remain uninvolved.

Review any available feedback on your seller when purchasing via an online marketplace, such as eBay or Etsy. How long have they been in business? What are their seller ratings? Review the listing carefully to make sure you know exactly what you are purchasing. Be sure you understand any return or refund policies the seller has in place for the item. If you have questions, ask before buying. Remember, most selling platforms also have customer service departments to assist you if you have additional questions, or experience a problem with a purchase.

Only use payment methods supported by your purchasing platforms. Do not accept any offers from a seller to “go off platform” for any reason to conduct or complete a transaction. Also do not use PayPal’s “Friends and Family” option to purchase from a seller, since that option offers no payment protection to you as a buyer. Only use the endorsed payment methods, and nothing else.

Confirm purchase protection status before you buy. Know what purchase protections are offered by the purchase platform you are using, particularly if making a major purchase. If you are planning to purchase from a platform like Facebook Marketplace, where only certain items carry purchase protection, be extra vigilant.

For additional tips, see the One Step Ahead link on the Information Security website: https://www.isc.upenn.edu/security/news-alerts#One-Step-Ahead.